Mental health is a fickle beast. These days it’s difficult to define what “mentally healthy” or “neurotypical” even means, thanks in part to rising mental health awareness that gives folks an opportunity to find themselves and speak out.

Whether or not the stereotype that all artists are sad, damaged people is true, it’s hard to deny that there do seem to be more instances of serious mental illness in creative communities. Some dance around the subject, but most use it to fuel their creative ambitions.

While the struggles of mental illness often bring about some incredibly moving art, it’s also crucial for creative types to reach out and get the help they need if things become too much to handle. Scott Kelly from Neurosis has cancelled his upcoming European tour with Mirrors for Psychic Warfare, the collaboration between Kelly and Buried at Sea’s Sanford Parker, due to concerns for his mental health. He issued the following statement:

“I have cancelled the Mirrors for Psychic Warfare tour in November because of my mental illness. It has made my life unmanageable and I believe that touring will only make it worse as it has in the past. I apologize to everyone who worked to put this tour together and make it happen but I have decided at this point of my life that my mental health must be my priority.”

Good on Kelly for speaking up. All too often, artists will hide their personal struggles and push on with touring until it’s too late. Self care should always come before fan service.